Suica Penguin Square: Meet the Penguin
Located at Shinjuku Station is a place to meet Tokyo’s most famous penguin: Let’s go to the Suica Penguin Square!
This place is known under three different names. The Japanese Suicaのペンギン広場 would translate to Suica Penguin Square or Suica Penguin Plaza. But the official English language name, as written at the place itself, is Suica’s Penguin Park.
Suica Penguin
The Suica Penguin is the mascot character of the Suica IC card by Japan Rail East. Whether you use the physical card or the mobile one, you’ll see the penguin. Unsurprisingly, you can buy plenty of Suica merch as well – and pay for them with your Suica card.
The Suica Penguin Square was opened in 2016 as part of a major expansion of Shinjuku station. This expansion added plenty of businesses, an office tower and a new bus terminal.
What to do at Suica Penguin Square
The Penguin Square is a great location to meet, rest and watch trains. Unlike the iconic Hachiko statue at Shibuya station, the space around the Suica penguin is well equipped with benches, seats and tables.
Despite its vicinity to one of the world’s busiest train station, the Suica Penguin Square isn’t as overrun as Hachiko. A couple of vending machines are installed next to the square.
A bronze Suica penguin is both a meeting point and photo spot. The square may also be included in seasonal events, such as the Shinjuku South Illumination. Some of the Suica penguins may be temporary, but the bronze one is permanent.
Meet at the penguin
The area around Shinjuku station doesn’t offer much space to just sit down and rest. That’s why the square was a welcome addition. If you happen to be at Shinjuku station near the Shinjuku Expressway Bus Terminal (Busta Shinjuku), say hello to the penguin!
